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6sz553
conjoined twins with only 2 legs between them, where each twin controls one leg, who gets the legs if the twins get separated?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6sz553/eli5_conjoined_twins_with_only_2_legs_between/
{ "a_id": [ "dlgowsk", "dlgpc29", "dlgsdg4" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "I believe that if the twins are that closely combined, separation without killing at least one (more likely both) is not possible. Separation is generally only possible if it's mostly a superficial atta...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
5a7gyu
why are some chicken mcnuggets shapped like boots, some like fish, and some are round?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5a7gyu/eli5_why_are_some_chicken_mcnuggets_shapped_like/
{ "a_id": [ "d9e94l3" ], "score": [ 8 ], "text": [ "**Short**: Because McDonald's Inc thought that those shapes would make them look more \"natural\" than all being identical lumps.\n\n**Long**: Before the get nugget'd, the chicken used in McNuggets first gets ground up, like beef is for hamburger...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
34jaks
the nasa em drives
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/34jaks/eli5_the_nasa_em_drives/
{ "a_id": [ "cqv76ak", "cqv78qp", "cqv7o2y", "cqvgwig", "cqvn01v", "cqvwlpz", "cqvx677" ], "score": [ 33, 302, 34, 8, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Supposedly they produce a thrust without propelling anything out the end. That's huge, if it's true, because i...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://emdrive.com/principle.html" ], [ "http://www.reddit.com/r/Futurology/comments/34cq1b/the_facts_as_we_currently_know_them_about_the/" ], [], [], [], [] ]
1dh9tz
does the space-is-like-a-balloon analogy mean the 'middle' of space is essentially empty?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1dh9tz/eli5_does_the_spaceislikeaballoon_analogy_mean/
{ "a_id": [ "c9q9vqg", "c9q9yzf", "c9qgqoz" ], "score": [ 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "No. It's just an analogy, don't take it too literally. The idea of the analogy is so that people can make sense of the idea of space expanding, but it doesn't literally mean that the universe is shaped ...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosmic_microwave_background_radiation" ], [] ]
6ubr3o
why do professional athletes get a 'pass' when it comes to their job security after committing a crime?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6ubr3o/eli5_why_do_professional_athletes_get_a_pass_when/
{ "a_id": [ "dlrfmhq", "dlrfolh", "dlrfqdk", "dlrfsvy", "dlrgaid", "dlrhmgc" ], "score": [ 2, 7, 9, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "They keep their jobs because their employers' customers want them to keep their jobs. If fans stopped supporting criminal athletes, then...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
3cji36
why are americans so much stricter about drinking laws than any other country?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3cji36/eli5why_are_americans_so_much_stricter_about/
{ "a_id": [ "csw364t", "csw36pb", "csw3il3" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 12 ], "text": [ "Young people in America drive more than young people in other countries. The change from 18 to 21 came in response to a rising number of high-school (14-18) age children dying from drunk driving accide...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
1czzhe
what is it about the red dot that makes my cats and dog go insane?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1czzhe/eli5_what_is_it_about_the_red_dot_that_makes_my/
{ "a_id": [ "c9lkec6", "c9lllgc" ], "score": [ 2, 4 ], "text": [ "it's not the color, it's the movement.", "Basically, it's because of the movement. And the fact that your pets are predators by nature. You'll often see people say that their cat brought them a dead mouse or something, f...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
8kbuio
why are arrest records and mugshots made publicly available before a guilty conviction is determined by the courts?
Wouldn't this paint a picture that the person is guilty before proving his innocence? It's possible that the wrong person was arrested and there is supposedly a presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Also, wouldn't it just create a mob mentality and skew public judgment from a jury perspective?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8kbuio/eli5_why_are_arrest_records_and_mugshots_made/
{ "a_id": [ "dz6ew4n", "dz6g974", "dz6gjpl", "dz6h4jz", "dz6l8m5", "dz6ovzh", "dz6p2ga", "dz6p804", "dz6qixj", "dz6r34t", "dz6r4lh", "dz6s6s5", "dz6wk56", "dz6z3m4", "dz70q4n", "dz7a6un", "dz7ass0", "dz7q69c" ], "score": [ 62, 9958, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
3nnepl
how hard is it to violate another country's airspace?
In light of recent events in Syria I was wondering how hard it is for a military pilot to violate another nation's airspace? Is it like slipping when walking a fine line, an accident? Or is it a deliberate action that could not be mistaken for an accident? I have no idea how fighter pilots can not know they are brea...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3nnepl/eli5_how_hard_is_it_to_violate_another_countrys/
{ "a_id": [ "cvplls4" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "It's pretty easy. If you don't pay attention to where you're going, any pilot, military or civilian, can accidentally cross a border they didn't mean to. It's like accidentally drifting out of your lane while driving. You didn't mean to cross int...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2wmomz
why don't games load during the intro screen?
After the intro is over (or skipped) in most games we need to wait until the game loads (both on PC and consoles). Why can't it use the time the user is watching the intro to load the game in the background?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2wmomz/eli5_why_dont_games_load_during_the_intro_screen/
{ "a_id": [ "cos9vt9" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "If you want the game to load during a video cutscene, then the video needs to be stored onto temporary memory while the CPU requests loading files from the same hard drive to be processed. This would also need to be stored in temporary memory, so...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
ewvsxp
why isn't the aenied as popular (culturally significant) as the odyssey or the illiad?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ewvsxp/eli5_why_isnt_the_aenied_as_popular_culturally/
{ "a_id": [ "fg4qhly", "fg4t5rv", "fg4tmhf" ], "score": [ 3, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "The Aeneid wasn't written by Homer, nor was it Greek, and was written later than the Odyssey/Illiad", "The Aeneid was actually studied near as much as Homer throughout the Renaissance and into the e...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
3immcs
why is it taking them so long to come out with the oculus rift consumer version, when they developed it nearly a year ago, and came out with the development kits nearly two years before that?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3immcs/eli5_why_is_it_taking_them_so_long_to_come_out/
{ "a_id": [ "cuhqdqu", "cuhqkj0", "cuhr9av", "cuhruos", "cuhs2qx", "cuhs59i", "cuhs8hp", "cuhs8px", "cuhs8wv", "cuhsnbc", "cuht0th", "cuht5n1", "cuht8po", "cuht98u", "cuhta1b", "cuhtd21", "cuhtmwr", "cuhtvak", "cuhu344", "cuhum54", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_games_with_Oculus_Rift_support" ], [], [], [], [], [ "https://www.oculus.com/en-us/rift/" ], [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5AixBKy7b4" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [],...
ax49pe
are sharks as aggressive as some documentaries portray or as peaceful as others show?
I love watching documentaries, especially ones about the ocean and sharks, but I feel like half are saying sharks are cold blooded killers and the other half say they're not simply aggressive, but rather peaceful and just curious. People of Reddit, what's your take on this?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ax49pe/eli5_are_sharks_as_aggressive_as_some/
{ "a_id": [ "ehr55ya", "ehr5bme", "ehr5gqf" ], "score": [ 11, 2, 4 ], "text": [ "I’d say both are sort of true. Sharks are indeed dangerous, and will hunt a human if they are starving, but most do not like the way humans taste. Most shark bites are from when a shark mistakes a huma...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
3ffbus
why is the concrete on streets, sidewalks, and bridges different colors?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3ffbus/eli5_why_is_the_concrete_on_streets_sidewalks_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cto2bnx" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "There are different mixes and grades of concrete. Some have fibres, more/less aggregate, different bonding agents, waterproofing agents. There isn't just one type of concrete. Some even have extra lime to help reduce weathering and add water resi...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
6832n5
my breath constantly smells awfully, yet i brush my teeth well every day. sometimes it smells even just after brushing. why's that?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6832n5/eli5_my_breath_constantly_smells_awfully_yet_i/
{ "a_id": [ "dgv97r3" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Here's a list of reasons for bad breath: _URL_0_\n\nThe basic answer is that there are reasons for bad breath that have nothing to do with your teeth." ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bad-breath/symptoms-causes/dxc-20192379" ] ]
7dtvc7
is eating food off the ground in any way beneficial to your immune system?
I'm sure we all know the type: someone drops part of their sandwich on the ground, picks it up, eats it, then claims that they are, "strengthening their immune system" by deliberately exposing themselves to whatever was on the floor. Is there any truth to this? It seems to logically follow that giving your immune syst...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7dtvc7/eli5_is_eating_food_off_the_ground_in_any_way/
{ "a_id": [ "dq0dhej", "dq0qqfo" ], "score": [ 26, 4 ], "text": [ "your immune system is like the borg. it is very adaptable. once it encounters one enemy, it'll be able to adapt to it and fight it off next time (assuming, that you survived the first encounter). \n\nbeing exposed to ger...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2f6bll
how are breathalysers accurate? if i took a shot and immediately blew into it, wouldn't it read my bac somewhere around ~15%?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2f6bll/eli5how_are_breathalysers_accurate_if_i_took_a/
{ "a_id": [ "ck6ak6l", "ck6akdf", "ck6avm7", "ck6fbgt", "ck6ivr7" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 4, 8, 2 ], "text": [ "The people administering the breathalyzer are instructed not to let the subject be swigging alcohol during the test itself.", "Yes it would. But then by t...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
5b2a5o
what is the dark (or deep) net?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5b2a5o/eli5what_is_the_dark_or_deep_net/
{ "a_id": [ "d9l7n3c", "d9l97ns", "d9lacbd" ], "score": [ 2, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "The 'deep web' is a name for all the sites on the Internet that are not available through Google or other usual search engines. They block those sites usually because of the illegal activity that occur...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://climateviewer.org/3D/", "http://climateviewer.org/3D/index.html?layersOn=mrm-91" ] ]
ncck3
why wouldn't indefinite military detentions of us citizens under the ndaa simply be struck down by the supreme court as unconstitutional?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ncck3/eli5_why_wouldnt_indefinite_military_detentions/
{ "a_id": [ "c37yqr2", "c37z0we", "c37z452", "c37zopi", "c380kug", "c37yqr2", "c37z0we", "c37z452", "c37zopi", "c380kug" ], "score": [ 7, 6, 3, 3, 3, 7, 6, 3, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "I think part of the concern of those opposing th...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
9hy5sg
how does "supply lead" economics work?
From what I've been told, business get tax cuts that allow them to reinvest more money into R & D allowing them to make better and cheaper products correct? Better and cheaper products would then lead to price reduction and increased availability to the masses as well as a desired improvement upon existing products. ...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9hy5sg/eli5_how_does_supply_lead_economics_work/
{ "a_id": [ "e6fk8yw", "e6gcxue" ], "score": [ 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Lower taxes to businesses and the wealthy. They invest in business, open new factories, hire new low income workers to drive the economy. \n\nThere are a couple inherent issues with this. 1: not all of the money from tax ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1vurup
why are there more benefits to having an active life style versus a sedentary one?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1vurup/why_are_there_more_benefits_to_having_an_active/
{ "a_id": [ "cevyko9", "cew0huk", "cew0uql", "cew1pig" ], "score": [ 3, 2, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "We're built to be active creatures. In nature if you sit down and do nothing all day every day, you end up with a severe case of dead very quickly. ", "Increased muscle mass/fu...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2q04qk
why are some subreddits private? and how do you gain access to these subs?
Just really curious R.I.P inbox, It was nice knowing you edit: this thread is my highest rated post + has my highest rated comment, nice one reddit!
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2q04qk/eli5_why_are_some_subreddits_private_and_how_do/
{ "a_id": [ "cn1leja", "cn1m2rr", "cn1r2l6", "cn1rrln", "cn1ui4i", "cn1un2r", "cn1upx5", "cn1v6bl", "cn1va6v", "cn1vfc8", "cn1vfnj", "cn1vm87", "cn1vsl4", "cn1wahd", "cn1x0bh", "cn1x1h3", "cn1xofz", "cn1yge2", "cn1z9iq", "cn1zdft", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www.reddit.com/message/compose?to=%2Fr%2Fhotelemployees", "http://www.reddit.com/message/compose?to=%2Fr%2FNightAudit" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://docs.go...
6948ml
how can we "focus" on a specific sound (i.e voice) just by looking at the object (i.e person)?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6948ml/eli5_how_can_we_focus_on_a_specific_sound_ie/
{ "a_id": [ "dh3mgei", "dh3mkat", "dh44s8z", "dh45377" ], "score": [ 5, 3, 4, 2 ], "text": [ "Good question. I'm a current university student and my professor that I am actually beginning research with is studying auditory neuroscience and this was one of his areas. This ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCtTtKKAhyE", "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-lN8vWm3m0" ], [] ]
93clx7
why can't we just use mac addreses instead of the ip addreses?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/93clx7/eli5_why_cant_we_just_use_mac_addreses_instead_of/
{ "a_id": [ "e3c9i8n", "e3ca6if" ], "score": [ 39, 3 ], "text": [ "A MAC address is unique identifier, but it doesn't tell you anything about *where* a device is. IP addresses are structured, routers can infer from the address which way it needs to send the message to get it towards its de...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5cpxqv
why does smoking cigarettes make my hangover seem a thousand times worse?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5cpxqv/eli5_why_does_smoking_cigarettes_make_my_hangover/
{ "a_id": [ "d9yf8gw", "d9yfyex", "d9yi1fx", "d9yild2", "d9yo478" ], "score": [ 8, 47, 3, 5, 6 ], "text": [ "You need water and salt to replace what you lost metabolizing alcohol, instead you put nicotine in your system, further dehydrating you and causing your meta...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21452920" ], [], [], [] ]
33161v
why does gas in the united states contain 10% ethanol?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/33161v/eli5_why_does_gas_in_the_united_states_contain_10/
{ "a_id": [ "cqgkfip", "cqgkkan", "cqgpf4g", "cqgx5pg" ], "score": [ 76, 31, 7, 6 ], "text": [ "It was supported by environmentalists under the belief that it could replace oil and be amazing for the environment. Farmers loved it because it created a huge demand for their c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
5gjg06
since all crop-lands are being overfarmed, and nutrients are being drained, what will happen when all these nutrients are completely drained? or will that point ever come?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5gjg06/eli5since_all_croplands_are_being_overfarmed_and/
{ "a_id": [ "dasqvs5", "dasr3uf", "dassta7" ], "score": [ 2, 4, 6 ], "text": [ "Farmers use a method called \"crop rotation\" to ensure nutrients are replenished in soil.\n\nSome plants provide more nutrients than they take, and some take more than they provide. By rotating these t...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
4bwrvl
the connection/growth from al-qaeda into isil
As someone who only partially pays attention to foreign affairs, can someone please explain the grow or connection from Al-Qaeda into ISIL.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4bwrvl/eli5_the_connectiongrowth_from_alqaeda_into_isil/
{ "a_id": [ "d1d28el", "d1d44ez", "d1d5w8c", "d1dd1hh" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 8, 2 ], "text": [ "ISIL was a separate group from Al Qaeda (the group responsible for 9/11) we used to refer to as \"Al Qaeda In Iraq.\" This was a group that Saddam Hussein kept in check. After th...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzmO6RWy1v8" ] ]
ngwmk
what are torrent trackers?
What exactly are torrent trackers? How do they work, and what is BaconBits?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/ngwmk/eli5_what_are_torrent_trackers/
{ "a_id": [ "c38zox6", "c38zox6" ], "score": [ 7, 7 ], "text": [ "_URL_0_\n\n_URL_1_\n\ntry using the search", "_URL_0_\n\n_URL_1_\n\ntry using the search" ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/jpay6/eli5_in_terms_of_piracy_what_are_trackers/", "http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/j9ux7/seeding_leeching_trackers_someone_please_explain/" ], [ "http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/jpay6/eli5_in_terms_of_piracy...
as5pbh
what are carbon credits and how do companies use them to offset their carbon footprint?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/as5pbh/eli5_what_are_carbon_credits_and_how_do_companies/
{ "a_id": [ "egrysxp", "egrz5xz" ], "score": [ 6, 2 ], "text": [ "One steam plant in NC releases 1000 pounds of pollution per day.\nThe other plant in the same company on the other side of the state releases 300 per day.\n\nThe limit under the carbon exchange is 1000 per day, per plant.\n\...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
6k9mpn
why are we encouraged to have good posture but then car and airplane seats are shaped in such a way that they do the opposite?
Seats like this are shaped in a concave way that turns my spine into pudding or is just plain uncomfortable. Its always bothered me.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6k9mpn/eli5_why_are_we_encouraged_to_have_good_posture/
{ "a_id": [ "djket2m" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "It's important to know that \"good posture\" is a Victorian esq idea of how you should stand and sit as to look \"proper\". It has nothing to do with what your back wants or needs.\n\nModern research tells us that humans should slouch in chairs, ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2g5uuz
how can i type correctly on the keyboard without looking but i won't be able to tell you where the keys are?
I can type essays without looking on the keyboard. But when asked where to find a letter on the keyboard, i have no idea
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2g5uuz/eli5how_can_i_type_correctly_on_the_keyboard/
{ "a_id": [ "ckfx92n", "ckfzq3p", "ckg3qon", "ckg76ps" ], "score": [ 14, 2, 2, 6 ], "text": [ "Muscle memory. Your hands have typed \"e\" so many times that you've sort of \"programmed\" your muscles to reach X inches in Y direction and press down for \"e\". You, consciousl...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
9j2yc4
what are 'fuzzy mathematics' and what are its applications?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9j2yc4/eli5_what_are_fuzzy_mathematics_and_what_are_its/
{ "a_id": [ "e6o9yd7", "e6oafol", "e6oas0k", "e6oazdq", "e6oazzr", "e6obmui", "e6oeqhu", "e6oslhs", "e6p6jac", "e6pp74b" ], "score": [ 171, 3, 2, 5, 43, 6, 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "'Fuzzy' is a term used to indicate that you'r...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuzzy_mathematics" ], [ "http://www.cs.utep.edu/vladik/2013/tr13-31.pdf" ], [], [], [], [], [] ]
1pcq1r
what is corn syrup and why is it in so much of our food?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1pcq1r/eli5_what_is_corn_syrup_and_why_is_it_in_so_much/
{ "a_id": [ "cd10un4", "cd10z4h", "cd114k3", "cd15va8", "cd167ia", "cd16sfs" ], "score": [ 27, 68, 14, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The US government subsidizes corn, so its cheaper to grow tons of it and turn into the syrup then it is to grow and harvest actual su...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-fructose_corn_syrup_and_health" ], [], [], [ "http://drhyman.com/blog/2011/05/13/5-reasons-high-fructose-corn-syrup-will-kill-you/" ], [ "http://www.learnliberty.org/videos/why-is-there-corn-in-your-coke", "http://www.learnliberty.org/videos/how...
2uj0kg
how can the government assure people of 'higher wages' when those wages are determined by the employers?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2uj0kg/eli5_how_can_the_government_assure_people_of/
{ "a_id": [ "co8sw7m", "co8tsk1", "co8tzyz", "co8yk8e" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "Minimum wage is determined by the law, not by employers.", "Our wonderful Communist Governments can do magical things.\n\nIn all seriousness, yes you are right a free labor mar...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
8gziq3
earthen dams, how do they work and are they different from concrete dams?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8gziq3/eli5_earthen_dams_how_do_they_work_and_are_they/
{ "a_id": [ "dyftlm5" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "It depends on the type of earth used. A combination of particle sizes (anywhere from large boulders to clay/silt) serve different structural or \"waterproofing\" purposes.\n\nThe dam may be constructed in layers to intentionally address each need...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5nwgs6
why is it so difficult to receive an organ transplant?
With the amount of organ donors (around 50%) why does it take years to receive an organ transplant
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5nwgs6/eli5_why_is_it_so_difficult_to_receive_an_organ/
{ "a_id": [ "dcettt1", "dcf3ojp" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Organs have to match the recipient otherwise the body can reject the new organ. There are two things to take into consideration and that is blood-type and HLA typing. Blood type is pretty straight forward, ideally the blood ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
89boxs
we're familiar with the concept of limbs falling asleep due to lack of circulation from the pressure on the limb's veins/arteries in relation to bodily position. i want to know how our brain always manages to wake us up before the extremity loses blood flow long enough to die. [serious]
It's happened to most if not all of us. You wake up in the middle of the night, and your arm is asleep. Your hand is numb, you can't lift the "sleeping" arm on its own, and you proceed to smack it back into feeling. How does your brain know just when to wake you up? Could you theoretically suffer actual limb death, o...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/89boxs/eli5_were_familiar_with_the_concept_of_limbs/
{ "a_id": [ "dwr8z7t" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "The tingling feelings is due to nerves, not loss of blood flow. Even if you were to completely restrict *arterial* flow, your limbs still diffuse blood, although much more slowly. \n\nIt takes a lot to kill a limb from lack of blood. Unlike your ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5y7zz3
why do phone have a standard charging port but laptops don't?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5y7zz3/eli5_why_do_phone_have_a_standard_charging_port/
{ "a_id": [ "denu1m6", "deo0vaw" ], "score": [ 4, 2 ], "text": [ "It is worth noting that until fairly recently, phone's tended to have proprietary charging ports that were specific to the phone.\n\nThe reason is that there wasn't a compelling reason to. Until USB-C, there wasn't a univer...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
2amls3
there is a rooster somewhere in my neighborhood that starts crowing at 3am, way before the sun is up - why?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2amls3/eli5_there_is_a_rooster_somewhere_in_my/
{ "a_id": [ "ciwnrps", "ciwp790", "ciwqjfe", "ciwvhjj" ], "score": [ 9, 2, 3, 3 ], "text": [ "Roosters run on an internal clock, not the sun. Your neighbor probably has a rooster imported from a different timezone.", "Check your local municipal code. \n\nRoosters usuall...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
2rtugu
how can small countries be better at certain sports than enormous countries?
It seems to me like the two biggest factors contributing to a city, state or country's sporting success would be resources and talent pool. I've definitely noticed those factors have an impact on sport on a local level, and it certainly benefits countries like the USA and China in the Olympics and Paralympics. How is ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2rtugu/eli5_how_can_small_countries_be_better_at_certain/
{ "a_id": [ "cnja9di" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "A few other factors to consider:\n\n**Culture**\n\nIf a sport has a deep cultural tradition, more people are going to play it and get good at it, and the country will develop an infracture to support it. The US is a large and rich country, but n...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
1lin5k
why aren't there different degrees of rape the way there are of assault, theft, and murder?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1lin5k/why_arent_there_different_degrees_of_rape_the_way/
{ "a_id": [ "cbzlswl" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "[There *are* different degrees of rape with different punishments](_URL_0_).\n\nRemoving because it's a moot question (the premise was incorrect, so there's nothing to explain)." ] }
[]
[]
[ [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rape_in_the_United_States#Criminal_Punishment" ] ]
4v2qpw
why do so many websites these days ask for my email address as soon as i get there, trying to sign me up for a newsletter?
This happens a million times more often than it did just a couple of years ago. Most recent one I just clicked on was [this](_URL_0_). No, I don't need a fucking newsletter about class action suits. Thanks. What's the story, are they just harvesting email addresses for ~~spam~~ marketing purposes?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4v2qpw/eli5_why_do_so_many_websites_these_days_ask_for/
{ "a_id": [ "d5uxqq2" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "When you visit a web site, they get to market to you anytime you want them to. When you subscribe to their newsletter, they get to market to you anytime **they** want to." ] }
[]
[ "https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/340705-nvidia-settles-graphics-card-false-advertising-class-action/" ]
[ [] ]
d36i1l
why does vaping create such a large, dense cloud of “smoke” (vapor)?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/d36i1l/eli5_why_does_vaping_create_such_a_large_dense/
{ "a_id": [ "ezzo10g" ], "score": [ 10 ], "text": [ "Interestingly. There are less particulates in vape vapour, than there are in cigarette smoke. But cigarette smoke has smaller particulates, so it appears a lot less visible. \n\nBecause the vapour is aerosolised (made into tiny droplets in the a...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
4dblvj
to the baseball experts, why do some say that it's better for the first baseman to be lefthanded?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4dblvj/eli5_to_the_baseball_experts_why_do_some_say_that/
{ "a_id": [ "d1pfmzf", "d1pftqv", "d1pfvby", "d1pgbib", "d1q2zqo" ], "score": [ 46, 4, 6, 10, 2 ], "text": [ "Lefties wear their gloves on their right hand. When you're standing on first base facing home plate, your right hand is on the second base side, and your le...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
9fntaw
why non-human mammals stop drinking mother's milk.
I realize that humans drink mother's milk as infants. I also realize that we make a transfer, at some point, to drinking cow's milk. I dont want to get into why we shouldn't be drinking cow's milk. My question is: why do other mammals stop feeding from the mother's teet at a certain point in their physical developm...
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9fntaw/eli5_why_nonhuman_mammals_stop_drinking_mothers/
{ "a_id": [ "e5xvvy6", "e5xw2e6", "e5xwj6z", "e5xwqp3", "e5xxyhe", "e5xz5l5" ], "score": [ 7, 3, 4, 23, 5, 3 ], "text": [ "You guessed it. Almost all other mammals become lactose intolerant at a point. That means lactose intolerant people are the \"normal\" ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
61gy32
why does it cost so much to protect the potus on a daily basis? other than salaries, where does the money go?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/61gy32/eli5_why_does_it_cost_so_much_to_protect_the/
{ "a_id": [ "dfefuvc", "dfefvrq", "dfenr1p", "dfex7pl" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "There isn't just 5 guys as secret service. The secret service employs over 6000 people, all who are at the top of their fields. You're not going to have any entry level secret...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/05/13_ways_secret_service_agents.html" ], [] ]
2ha2s6
why do dogs randomly bark at people when they pass by?
Is it to get the attention of the owner that someone is outside? The people outside aren't threatening them, so why bark at people to scare them?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2ha2s6/eli5_why_do_dogs_randomly_bark_at_people_when/
{ "a_id": [ "ckqsgwi", "ckqsng3" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "They are threatening them. By passing near or through an area that the dog considers its territory that is a threat. ", "Dogs bark for lots of reasons, so there's no one answer. Sometimes it's a threat. Sometimes it's ...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
1y9n1a
why does disney seem to have a movie formula that involves the death or absents of one or both parents and why has this formula stuck through all but a few films?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1y9n1a/eli5_why_does_disney_seem_to_have_a_movie_formula/
{ "a_id": [ "cfij8rk", "cfijbm8", "cfijcun" ], "score": [ 2, 5, 2 ], "text": [ "This is a trope that spans much more than just Disney films", "This is a common trope in literature and film. It is an effective way to make an independent character who cannot simply rely on his fa...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
347s1r
how do we know a country has gotten rid of weapons (nuclear or chemical) as russia has just claimed?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/347s1r/eli5_how_do_we_know_a_country_has_gotten_rid_of/
{ "a_id": [ "cqs1tjn", "cqs3hhj", "cqs3xc1" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The UN and some NGOs send groups of people to verify the absence of nuclear weapons in armories, to witness that nuclear centrals are only for energetic purpose.", "The SALT treaties included provis...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
5oocsf
can a singularity move through space?
If so, does it, and what is required to move it?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5oocsf/eli5_can_a_singularity_move_through_space/
{ "a_id": [ "dckufmf" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Everything in space is in motion relative to _something_. So it is moving, constantly, in some fashion. Unless you ment something else?" ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
2knxi8
if the u.s. government is supposed to separate church and state, why are politicians allowed to publicly state their religious views and act on those views while making policies or voting in congress?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2knxi8/eli5_if_the_us_government_is_supposed_to_separate/
{ "a_id": [ "cln2k6m", "cln2y14", "cln357h", "cln3why", "cln48ge", "cln4ol1", "cln4rku", "cln4wg4", "cln4wq8", "cln5ads", "cln5k1m", "cln5mye", "cln5ndn", "cln5pm8", "cln5tug", "cln5vsw", "cln5x48", "cln661h", "cln66k4", "cln67tx", "c...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No_Religious_Test_Clause" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [...
5aghb6
why do statistically heavy set people have deeper voices than more average sized people?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5aghb6/eli5_why_do_statistically_heavy_set_people_have/
{ "a_id": [ "d9gbi4z" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Larger people tend to have have longer vocal cords. Longer vocal cords vibrate at a lower frequency. The lower the frequency you vibrate your vocal cords at, the deeper your voice is." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
5y3zjk
why cant anything have an entropy of 0 j/k?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5y3zjk/eli5why_cant_anything_have_an_entropy_of_0_jk/
{ "a_id": [ "demzj2v" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Technically it is possible, it's just that if a molecule has no energy, it will be a negligible amount of time before it has energy again, even if it is only like 0.001 k" ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
codsc3
why can't someone produce cheap medicine like insulin?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/codsc3/eli5_why_cant_someone_produce_cheap_medicine_like/
{ "a_id": [ "ewhom3s", "ewhoso2", "ewhpeun", "ewhqb9h" ], "score": [ 3, 4, 8, 3 ], "text": [ "The insulins that were originally patented were incredibly simple compared to today's insulin analogs, and are in fact still available for relatively low prices, without a prescrip...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/03/19/393856788/why-is-u-s-insulin-so-expensive" ], [], [] ]
3n9flr
how will new gun laws prevent mass shootings?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3n9flr/eli5_how_will_new_gun_laws_prevent_mass_shootings/
{ "a_id": [ "cvm0ul3", "cvm11bz", "cvm14jj", "cvm16xa", "cvm2pdo", "cvm2r4p", "cvm3r7v", "cvm3uwk", "cvm3w4k", "cvm5mrb", "cvm742h", "cvmalj8", "cvmdi64" ], "score": [ 36, 8, 4, 25, 4, 6, 15, 4, 6, 4, 6, 3, 2 ...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-02-17/news/ct-met-guns-gangs-20130217_1_levaine-tanksley-gun-laws-gun-trafficker" ], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2015/jun/09/the-counted-police-killings-us-vs-other-countries" ], [], [], [], [] ]
217kgs
why are there no high profile painters/sculptors (michelangelo, da vinci) or artistic "movements" anymore?
Painting and sculpting seem to be a ancient art. I know people still do it, but how many paintings and sculptures come out nowadays that are heralded like the works of Da Vinci or Michelangelo. Also I'm sure there are still "movements" going on but nothing I can see being studied and documented the way movements like ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/217kgs/eli5_why_are_there_no_high_profile/
{ "a_id": [ "cgadubo", "cgae3wx", "cgaebh1", "cgaeh6t", "cgafs47" ], "score": [ 5, 2, 2, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "Most of those 'high profile' artists were considered talented professionals in their day. After their death, their works became increasingly regarded.\n\nTher...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [] ]
6l0qlk
why is getting comfortable (slouching, laying in awkward positions, sinking in your chair, etc.) so bad for you but so comfortable at the same time?
Usually having perfect posture for most people is hard because it's uncomfortable. Shouldn't it be the other way around?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6l0qlk/eli5why_is_getting_comfortable_slouching_laying/
{ "a_id": [ "djq6t57" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Because sitting in the same position (upright) makes you sore after a while. I work in an office and do this a lot and it helps your back a lot." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
206vza
how does this not work? (picture in description)
Sorry for the terrible vagueness of the question I've drawn this to help explain: _URL_0_ brown is the floor, red is a normal rope Why is is that if I were to sit on a rope and pull up on either end, I will remain on the ground, but if I sit on the same rope and someone comes along and pulls up on either end, I wi...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/206vza/eli5_how_does_this_not_work_picture_in_description/
{ "a_id": [ "cg0bzbq" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "because the force you are exerting upward derives from within yourself. If you are up in the air, you have nothing to push down against to support yourself. Someone else, who remains standing on the ground, has something to push up against to def...
[]
[ "http://i.imgur.com/LEFSNsc.jpg" ]
[ [] ]
1720yr
asteroids mining will begin eventually, what will be the consequence if earth quickly gains weight?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1720yr/eli5_asteroids_mining_will_begin_eventually_what/
{ "a_id": [ "c81gda3", "c81gexg", "c81gfhl", "c81gr3p", "c81hv6i", "c81ldxb", "c81tqjx", "c81yed4" ], "score": [ 112, 4, 12, 6, 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "You have to realize how *large* earth actually is. The statistic that gets this across th...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
72uuc6
what do 'good acoustics' in a music venue/theatre actually mean or sound like?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/72uuc6/eli5_what_do_good_acoustics_in_a_music/
{ "a_id": [ "dnlfcrw", "dnlh1ce" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "This typically means that a performer on stage can be heard clearly from any seat in the house. \n\nThis is accomplished by carefully planning the construction of the venue by choosing the proper materials and the proper siz...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/Acoustic/imgaco/rt2.gif" ] ]
2k9vvo
why do you multiply 1/3 to height x area to get the volume of a pyramid?
It's been bugging me since back when I learned it and it's killing me now that I think back on it.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2k9vvo/eli5_why_do_you_multiply_13_to_height_x_area_to/
{ "a_id": [ "clj9t9l" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "the pyramid has the same volume with the point in the center as it would if you pushed the point into one of the corners (so that the pyramid has two vertical sides) and three of those fit together to form a rectangular cuboid whose volume is bas...
[]
[]
[ [ "http://korthalsaltes.com/model.php?name_en=three+pyramids+that+form+a+cube" ] ]
1q2edl
why we don't paint on our airplanes like we did during wwii
I recently saw some WWII planes and I saw the unique, pin up, and fighter style designs. What changed from when that was okay do to, and now it doesn't? EDIT: I realized I used "us" to refer to the Americans, I forgot that Reddit is a global website, my apologizes.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1q2edl/eli5_why_we_dont_paint_on_our_airplanes_like_we/
{ "a_id": [ "cd8hhqy", "cd8i17e", "cd8iv49", "cd8kres" ], "score": [ 4, 13, 5, 7 ], "text": [ "It's not considered politically prudent to appear to be wanting to go to war or enjoying it.", "For one thing, some modern combat aircraft are designed for reduced radar cross...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [ "http://i.imgur.com/h6JmVOO.jpg" ], [] ]
8angrj
up until about ten years ago, people in photos taken with flash almost always came out with red eyes, but now you never see people with red eyes in pictures - what happened?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/8angrj/eli5_up_until_about_ten_years_ago_people_in/
{ "a_id": [ "dx011d9", "dx01fvt", "dx01org", "dx01p41" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 14, 5 ], "text": [ "The red-eye effect is caused by the camera flash reflecting off the back of the subject's eyes. Newer cameras and phones have special lights and sensors that prevent this.", "...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [] ]
24azfc
how do we get a specific sickness more than once? wouldn't we build up an immunity after the first time we got it?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/24azfc/eli5_how_do_we_get_a_specific_sickness_more_than/
{ "a_id": [ "ch5bjtt", "ch5bkgr" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "We generally *do* build up an immunity. But many things that we tend to think of as \"a specific sickness\" aren't actually specific. For instance, there are hundreds of different cold viruses, and they keep mutating every...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
324cdr
how come any time you see depictions of early humans/cavemen, they're never shown as having long beards, even though they didn't have any razors at the time?
I know they had rudimentary stone tools, but i wouldn't think anything capable of giving a close shave...or that that would even be something they thought of doing.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/324cdr/eli5_how_come_any_time_you_see_depictions_of/
{ "a_id": [ "cq7q0of", "cq7q3m3", "cq7qbij", "cq7thli", "cq7uvka", "cq7uyr5", "cq817k6", "cq81yhu", "cq82ukd", "cq88iiy", "cq8940w", "cq89e9r" ], "score": [ 2, 14, 6, 91, 6, 19, 2, 4, 16, 4, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "...
[]
[]
[ [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obsidian" ], [], [], [], [ "http://nativeamericans.mrdonn.org/northwest/longhouses.html", "http://acanadiannaturalist.net/2012/11/06/woman-the-hunter/", "https://youtu.be/QWSTE6WLB0Y", "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caveman", "http://coursesa.ma...
349ci7
if at the start of our life we have just a few cells with exactly the same dna, and those cells divide to make exactly the same cells with exactly the same dna inside them, how do we end up with complex bodies comprising vastly different kinds of cells? (nerve cells, muscle cells etc.)?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/349ci7/eli5_if_at_the_start_of_our_life_we_have_just_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cqsgtr1", "cqsi4zm", "cqsi6mo" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 3 ], "text": [ "To simplify a complicated process that I don't fully understand:\n\nAs we develop, our bodies create hormones and proteins, which tell cells in certain parts of our body to take on certain roles. As emb...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [] ]
20e21i
why is the origin of the basque language, [out of southern france/ northern spain], so hard to identify?
There have been various suggestions however no definitive root of this language and the sound of this language [To me a Japanesey-Spanish] sounds intriguing...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/20e21i/eli5_why_is_the_origin_of_the_basque_language_out/
{ "a_id": [ "cg2dlqp" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "I'm not sure what you're actually asking.\n\nBasque appears to be a unique language completely unrelated to any other still-existing European language. Linguists therefore suspect it's derived from one of the older, now lost, proto-Indo-European ...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
38byme
why do directors wear berets?
I've seen this on multiple directors in multiple countries. Why is this happening?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/38byme/eli5_why_do_directors_wear_berets/
{ "a_id": [ "crtw7kn", "crtwuvb" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Partly it is down to it almost being part of the uniform, part of it is practicality. You need something that will keep the rain and sun off, won't blow away in the wind and won't make any noise on set a beret or cap general...
[]
[]
[ [], [] ]
5w71gm
would someone with high blood pressure benefit from controlled blood loss? would blood pressure decrease enough to be worth it?
I donate blood often, and I don't see any noticeable effects from losing a pint of blood every eight weeks or so. How much does blood pressure go down after a donation, and is it worth donating just for that reason?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5w71gm/eli5_would_someone_with_high_blood_pressure/
{ "a_id": [ "de7z1cr" ], "score": [ 5 ], "text": [ "Blood pressure is not about the static pressure of a certain amount in a container. It's about the effort needed to drive it round your blood vessels like through the pipes of a central heating system where near-blockages are bad." ] }
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3moiwp
smartphone antennas and their signal emmision, (bonus: smartphones with traditional antenna? is that a thing?)
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3moiwp/eli5_smartphone_antennas_and_their_signal/
{ "a_id": [ "cvgrttk" ], "score": [ 9 ], "text": [ "Smartphones have antennas, but they're wholly contained in the case itself. Basically, with the number of cell towers in most areas, the slight boost in reception that could be gained from an external antenna isn't worth the extra bulk, especiall...
[]
[]
[ [] ]
3nxrxd
when one has a head cold and one of their nostrils is clogged up..why is that when they turn their head, it suddenly clears up within seconds?
I currently have a head cold and only one of my nostrils is ever clogged. But when I turn my head the opposite way of the nostril, it suddenly clears up and I can breathe normally.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3nxrxd/eli5_when_one_has_a_head_cold_and_one_of_their/
{ "a_id": [ "cvs7oac", "cvsaeym" ], "score": [ 2, 2 ], "text": [ "The congestion is caused by mucus in the sinuses. So, when you tilt your held, the mucus flows, or moves relative to gravity. Hence, the nostril that's up becomes clear.", "Do note that congestion is also commonly a bypr...
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[ [], [] ]
66xisn
aren't electric cars still using fossil fuels?
Since most electricity (~85% in US) comes from burning of fossil fuels, wouldn't electric cars using the electricity be using fossil fuels? Is it significantly more efficient to use the fossil fuels burned at the power plant instead of gasoline in a car?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/66xisn/eli5_arent_electric_cars_still_using_fossil_fuels/
{ "a_id": [ "dgm0p2x", "dgm0uq0" ], "score": [ 8, 3 ], "text": [ "Yes, electric cars will still be using energy that's ultimately derived from fossil fuels for the most part, but as you guessed, the tiny engine in an automobile is significantly less efficient than the enormous turbines and...
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[ [], [] ]
4rgs1e
why do people who have screws suddenly have pain in their limbs when it rains?
Something with the change in atmospheric pressure?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4rgs1e/eli5_why_do_people_who_have_screws_suddenly_have/
{ "a_id": [ "d512m4z" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "See [these previous posts on roughly the same topic.](_URL_0_)" ] }
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[ [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/search?sort=relevance&t=all&q=subreddit:explainlikeimfive%20pain%20OR%20hurt%20rain%20OR%20weather" ] ]
2f1z9j
do people with mental diseases know they have it?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2f1z9j/eli5_do_people_with_mental_diseases_know_they/
{ "a_id": [ "ck54v2s", "ck54vm1", "ck54yhz", "ck54zo9", "ck55k4v", "ck5639c", "ck59ps6", "ck5am2j", "ck5c7ua", "ck5fwv0" ], "score": [ 50, 8, 2, 24, 12, 6, 23, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Depends on the disorder. For example, a pers...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
7iletf
why aren’t all food jars manufactured to be as easy to open as a plastic salsa jar?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/7iletf/eli5_why_arent_all_food_jars_manufactured_to_be/
{ "a_id": [ "dqzvzg9", "dr0hpyt" ], "score": [ 8, 3 ], "text": [ "The hard-to-open ones are typically glass jars that use both a vacuum seal and a heat-set plastic or wax layer under the cap. These form a very secure seal for items meant to last on the shelf for up to years without any ris...
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[ [], [] ]
a2kiyu
why do phone manufacturers let their customers set the date and time on their phones to before the phone's manufacturing date?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/a2kiyu/eli5_why_do_phone_manufacturers_let_their/
{ "a_id": [ "eaz7i39", "eaz7mb6", "eaz8sap", "eaz8z9d" ], "score": [ 10, 5, 4, 3 ], "text": [ "Why would they put even a second of thought or effort into preventing that?\n\nThere is no harm in doing that. It doesn't hurt the device and there is no reason the company would...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
18j1fn
how the american road naming system works
I'm an Arab hopefully going to study in the US soon. For the life of me, I can't understand naming roads like 12th and Springsteen. Is that the name of 1 street. Is it the name of a block?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/18j1fn/eli5_how_the_american_road_naming_system_works/
{ "a_id": [ "c8f7nbn", "c8f7tqd", "c8fb2hm", "c8fcu75", "c8fe3j4", "c8fegwn", "c8fk0tn" ], "score": [ 3, 18, 3, 3, 3, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "When someone says \"X and Y\", that's the point where road X and road Y cross each other.", "12th and Springs...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
5uz168
why did fully wireless earphones/earbuds take so long to reach the market, when those quirky bluetooth headsets have been around for so long?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5uz168/eli5_why_did_fully_wireless_earphonesearbuds_take/
{ "a_id": [ "ddxxlir", "ddxxoor", "ddy0yd1", "ddy9vb8" ], "score": [ 5, 44, 32, 4 ], "text": [ "The wireless package has been around for quite a while already. The problem was battery life and size. Newer technology allows for long enough battery life to last a day of l...
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[ [], [ "http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-airpods-delay-wireless-earbuds-technical-issues-2016-12" ], [], [] ]
2k735d
how do cemeteries work? when you buy a plot can you do whatever you want with it? if the cemetery falls into disrepair does it breach a contract?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2k735d/eli5how_do_cemeteries_work_when_you_buy_a_plot/
{ "a_id": [ "clij1tn", "clioplv" ], "score": [ 8, 5 ], "text": [ "You only have the rights granted to you by whatever agreement you sign with the cemetery. Generally, there are two rights: the right of the deceased to be buried there, and the right of the family to visit and prevent its de...
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2q0fj2
why can your mouth tolerate hotter food than your hands?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/2q0fj2/eli5why_can_your_mouth_tolerate_hotter_food_than/
{ "a_id": [ "cn1oql1", "cn1ouv3", "cn1p8c8", "cn1pjcz", "cn1sp4t", "cn1vb3k" ], "score": [ 81, 13, 24, 9, 8, 3 ], "text": [ "As someone that worked as a dishwasher once upon a time, my hands can tolerate a whole bunch more heat than my mouth. ", "It can'...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [] ]
34hscg
why is it so hard for the us to get 5%of the vote to a third party candidate?
Like I voted for Gary Johnson in 2012 because I was told if he pulled 5 percent, the party he ran under would be able to pull funds out of the presidential campaign grant the next election. Is that how it works? So how come we can't see a 5% number? Is it voter apathy? Do people just vote party lines? Does this have ...
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/34hscg/eli5_why_is_it_so_hard_for_the_us_to_get_5of_the/
{ "a_id": [ "cqusyxb", "cqut0m4", "cqutp23", "cqutvqg", "cqv3br0", "cqva252" ], "score": [ 18, 2, 6, 2, 6, 2 ], "text": [ "Because when you are voting for a third-party candidate, that usually means you are throwing your vote away. That candidate isn't going...
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[ [ "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7tWHJfhiyo" ], [], [], [], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proportional_representation" ], [ "http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/D%27Hondt_method" ] ]
1lg3xy
since the tech industry is so big, and the us government is very sensitive to lobbying, why hasn't the tech industry lobbied the government to leave it alone?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1lg3xy/eli5_since_the_tech_industry_is_so_big_and_the_us/
{ "a_id": [ "cbyvzmk", "cbywlou", "cbyz95e" ], "score": [ 14, 7, 2 ], "text": [ "The tech industry does not want any one thing. It wants MANY things at the same time and many of them contradictory. The tech industry does also not want to be left alone, it wants favorable treatmen...
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[]
[ [], [ "http://www.opensecrets.org/lobby/top.php" ], [] ]
6vwbwi
why are some liquids, like oil, very slick? what molecular properties make a good lubricant?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6vwbwi/eli5why_are_some_liquids_like_oil_very_slick_what/
{ "a_id": [ "dm3ifq4", "dm3jhkm" ], "score": [ 2, 5 ], "text": [ "I don't claim to be an expert, but this is what I think is the reason. If I am wrong, nobody should hesitate to correct me.\n\nThere's a chemical property known as viscosity, which basically means a liquid being \"thicker\" ...
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173sc3
how do i walk properly?
Explain please. I don't know how to walk properly apparently. This stems from a question I asked a female friend. I asked her what the most unattractive things were about me. Turns out my walk is 1.
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/173sc3/how_do_i_walk_properly/
{ "a_id": [ "c81zi80" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "Probably has to do with your posture and stride." ] }
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9q3reo
how does activated carbon have a such a huge surface area per 1g, how does it work?
[deleted]
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/9q3reo/eli5_how_does_activated_carbon_have_a_such_a_huge/
{ "a_id": [ "e86ezu2" ], "score": [ 4 ], "text": [ "It stems from how it's set up. Take a Kg chunk of any material in a cube. As a single piece it has a set surface area. Cut that in half, and suddenly your gain in total surface area is equal to adding two new square faces to the total. Repeat tho...
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3n0k2j
is it possible for a error to mutate a computer program causing it to evolve in the same way biological organisms evolve.
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3n0k2j/eli5_is_it_possible_for_a_error_to_mutate_a/
{ "a_id": [ "cvjqnua", "cvjqpf6", "cvjr9qa", "cvjrdgy" ], "score": [ 2, 2, 2, 2 ], "text": [ "Evolving computer chips is a huge part of creating a good AI. There are already several companies working with this technology. When it was first worked up it created such efficien...
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3wsm9b
why do we go through waves of intense logical clarity but sometimes cannot comprehend simple sentences or words?
Basically, why do we go through intense and insatiable periods curiosity but sometimes can't remember what a spoon is called?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3wsm9b/eli5_why_do_we_go_through_waves_of_intense/
{ "a_id": [ "cxz2fl3" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "How old are you ? I'm old as dirt (50's) and this has been happening to me for about 10 years." ] }
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4dmizp
why can us state governments pass unconstitutional laws? wouldn't these be illegal and therefore ineffective?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4dmizp/eli5_why_can_us_state_governments_pass/
{ "a_id": [ "d1satfh", "d1saulq", "d1sav80", "d1savbe", "d1sawm7", "d1sawni", "d1say5u", "d1sb13b", "d1sb3lz", "d1sbz0f" ], "score": [ 4, 18, 4, 6, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 2 ], "text": [ "They can pass whatever laws they want. It would...
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[ [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [], [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourteenth_Amendment_to_the_United_States_Constitution#Incorporation" ] ]
6mrkop
how are languages with millions of characters (chinese and the likes) categorized into an alphabetical order
Seriously I want to know if maybe they convert their language into Latin characters using the sound or something idk please explain
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/6mrkop/eli5_how_are_languages_with_millions_of/
{ "a_id": [ "dk3tipt" ], "score": [ 2 ], "text": [ "First, there are merely thousands of characters with only a fraction of those being relevant even to authors and scholars. \n\nSecondly there are a few methods used. One of which organizes by radical (the bits and bobs that make up a character.) ...
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171vsj
why is nuclear fusion "always 30 years away"?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/171vsj/eli5_why_is_nuclear_fusion_always_30_years_away/
{ "a_id": [ "c81ffsw", "c81fj1b", "c81g0ba", "c81g8j5", "c81hf6m", "c81hlqd", "c81hpbd", "c81ighw", "c81iqrr", "c81jtll", "c81k473", "c81kzgj", "c81ni4t", "c81rnan" ], "score": [ 23, 8, 12, 530, 15, 13, 8, 141, 6, 9, ...
[]
[]
[ [], [], [], [ "http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/mpc9g/iama_nuclear_fusion_scientist_american_expat_in/c32ravg", "http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/mpc9g/iama_nuclear_fusion_scientist_american_expat_in/" ], [], [ "http://www.xkcd.com/678/" ], [ "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/D...
4w5ttt
what does it mean when a reef has bleached? and what does that mean for the future of our oceans?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/4w5ttt/eli5what_does_it_mean_when_a_reef_has_bleached/
{ "a_id": [ "d647wug" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "The coral in the reefs are made up of tiny animals that capture and keep even tinier algae to help feed them. When stressed, the coral gives up the algae causing the reefs to turn white. When really stressed, they coral then dies. This stress mi...
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22eiox
how did richard nixon get impeached from tapping a hotel, yet obama and his administration practically tap an entire nation and not get any repercussions?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/22eiox/eli5_how_did_richard_nixon_get_impeached_from/
{ "a_id": [ "cgm179k", "cgm18jv", "cgm1du0", "cgm2ivn", "cgm3od1" ], "score": [ 3, 3, 38, 27, 14 ], "text": [ "He was never impeached. He resigned way before that happened. Also, part of it has to do with what he was wiretapping for. \n\nAlso, Nixon's men broke int...
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53xaqv
jainism
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/53xaqv/eli5_jainism/
{ "a_id": [ "d7x5a8y" ], "score": [ 21 ], "text": [ "Uhh what's up. Second generation Indian here, and Jain.\n\nHonestly, I may not be the best at explaining the dogma, but I'll give you the best I can. \n\nBasically, like many other eastern religions, the goal is to break the cycle of life and de...
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b2yyf0
how do drug companies know that death may be a side effect of their drug? do people die during clinical trials?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/b2yyf0/eli5_how_do_drug_companies_know_that_death_may_be/
{ "a_id": [ "eivwd4s", "eixh76d" ], "score": [ 22, 3 ], "text": [ "Having discussed this previously with an MD, basically, in the US, when they test the drug, any effect experienced by anyone in the clinical trial group has to be listed as a potential side effect. So if anyone dies in the...
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[ [], [] ]
5d90ux
i went to a cafe for a coffee and was offered white or brown sugar? what is the difference? isn't sugar just sugar?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/5d90ux/eli5_i_went_to_a_cafe_for_a_coffee_and_was/
{ "a_id": [ "da2ntcw" ], "score": [ 3 ], "text": [ "Brown Sugar tends to add a distinct flavor to the foods its added to. White sugar simply dissolves more readily and affects the taste a little less. Both still sweeteners. I suggest trying both and seeing if there's a difference. Enjoy your coffe...
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bxi7yu
why do old people seem to get clumsier with age?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/bxi7yu/eli5_why_do_old_people_seem_to_get_clumsier_with/
{ "a_id": [ "eq6wlme", "eq6ww8c" ], "score": [ 5, 7 ], "text": [ "Our movements are in some part controlled by the signals sent to and from our nerves. When we get older, those signals take longer to be sent out from our arms/legs/etc. and longer to be understood by the control center, th...
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[ [], [] ]
3r8o4v
how can babies sleep in awkward and uncomfortable positions, without showing any symptoms of pain, such as a stiff neck or back that adults would normally show?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/3r8o4v/eli5_how_can_babies_sleep_in_awkward_and/
{ "a_id": [ "cwluj83", "cwlzuxx", "cwm0ism", "cwmov80" ], "score": [ 90, 2, 24, 2 ], "text": [ "They're limbs and muscle are aren't fully developed. Babies are made of mostly cartridge (like the stuff you find you're ears and nose are made of) so they are more flexible ", ...
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[ [], [], [], [] ]
1n8d4c
what does meth feel like?
Just started watching breaking bad and got curious. Tried looking up the neurotransmitters involved, and the number of systems it targets is overwhelming. Anyone done it, and can explain?
explainlikeimfive
http://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/1n8d4c/what_does_meth_feel_like/
{ "a_id": [ "ccgabhb", "ccgaclx", "ccgafkx" ], "score": [ 7, 3, 6 ], "text": [ "It's like an orgasm your soul has. It's like seeing the world for the first time.\n\nLater it's like cancer that climbs into your brain and helps you make your decisions for you.\n\nOne day you look in ...
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[ [], [], [] ]
48orvw
is bathroom water bad to drink compared to the water of kitchen?
explainlikeimfive
https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/48orvw/eli5_is_bathroom_water_bad_to_drink_compared_to/
{ "a_id": [ "d0lb2ul", "d0lb9i8" ], "score": [ 3, 3 ], "text": [ "They both come out a tap from the same tank so both are equally safe to drink (as long as you keep your bathroom clean)", "Legally a bathroom faucet is required to be potable, i.e. safe to drink. If it wasn't that'd be a...
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